news Search is on for zebra mussels in Pelican Lake Pelican Lake was designated as infested waters on July 2, when DNR divers found two zebra mussels near Gooseberry Island. Since that time, divers and residents have found additional zebra mussels in various locations of the lake. Pelican Lakes Association...
Brainerd, 56401

Brainerd MN 506 James St. / PO Box 974 56401

2012-09-10 19:51:25

Search is on for zebra mussels in Pelican Lake

Pelican Lake was designated as infested waters on July 2, when DNR divers found two zebra mussels near Gooseberry Island. Since that time, divers and residents have found additional zebra mussels in various locations of the lake.

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Pelican Lakes Association officials said this is clearly a very early infestation and there’s a possibility to remove a reproducing population if it can be located. The association is urging everyone that uses or has property on Pelican Lake to join in the search.

Unfortunately, association officials said finding a zebra mussel in an 8,300 acre lake is like looking for a needle in a haystack. They offered the following tips:

Where to look: Shallow water (typically less than 10 feet deep) on hard surfaces like rocks, dock poles, boat lifts, swim platforms, pontoons or attached to a native mussel. Keep in mind that it is possible that mussels are inside a dock or lift post where they are not visible. Search your shoreline, your neighbors’ shoreline, get out a snorkel and go search in the lake. Perform a very thorough inspection of your docks, lifts and boats when they are removed in the fall.

What you are looking for: A clam the size of your fingernail that is very hard to spot. What to do if you find one: Remove the mussel from the lake and put it in a plastic bag for the DNR to review. Keep track of when and where you found it. Report the finding immediately to DNR invasive species specialist Dan Swanson, at 833-8645. Those who find mussels may drop off specimens at the DNR office or someone will come to your home to pick it up.

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